Prime time: An early intervention program for vulnerable families

As a result of reviewing the research on early childhood brain development and the adverse consequences resulting from children experiencing toxic stress in the early years, we created the Prime Time prevention program. The... [ view full abstract ]

As a result of reviewing the research on early childhood brain development and the adverse consequences resulting from children experiencing toxic stress in the early years, we created the Prime Time prevention program.
The Program:
Serves families at higher risk of potential child maltreatment by having a criteria for acceptance into the program of 2 or more risk factors being present (e.g. low income and single parenthood).
Using research supported program attributes and strategies that generate long-term gains, the program:
• Starts services at around or before birth and provides continuous support for two or more years;
• Provides services in the family’s home and responds to the family’s time schedules and issues of concern (including spontaneous/unscheduled access);
• Provides exemplary program models of intervention (social and emotional support and counselling; guidance and training to encourage healthy growth and development; service coordination and links; and advocacy for services);
• A “never say good-bye” philosophy. Potential re-engagement at future times, even for brief periods can support growth and mitigate against a reversal of gains made;
• A high level of collaboration and cross referral with others who have expertise or informal supports the family may require.
Our outcomes based evaluation has demonstrated statistically significant gains, pre-and-post testing on a number of program goals over the 7 years of operation.
Particular Program Strengths
1. Our Family Coaches are experienced foster parents. They have a combination of commitment, knowledge and practical skills that are particularly effective with vulnerable families. This model is also very cost effective.
2. A creative and effective partnership of 2 Societies operated and fundraises for the program. The strength of this model can be elaborated on in the presentation.